How To Safely Remove Asbestos Sheets From Roof In Sussex

Asbestos is a hazardous mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry until the 1990s. The toxic fibers can easily become airborne when disturbed, leading to severe health risks if inhaled. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in many older properties in Sussex, including roofing sheets.

If you suspect that your roof contains asbestos, it's important not to ignore the issue. Instead, you need to take action to ensure the safe removal of the contaminated material. This guide will provide you with advice on how to remove asbestos sheets from your roof in Sussex in a safe and affordable manner.

About Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a reputable asbestos removal company in Sussex, offering affordable and efficient services for both commercial and residential properties. We have extensive experience in the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials, including roofing sheets. Our team is fully trained and licensed to handle asbestos, ensuring that every job we undertake is completed to the highest standard of safety.

What Are Asbestos Sheets?

Asbestos sheets were commonly used in the 1950s and 60s as roofing material, particularly for garages and sheds. It was later discovered that the roofing sheets, which were made of cement mixed with asbestos fibers, can pose a health risk if disturbed.

If roof made before or during the 1990s, it is actually likely made with asbestos. Asbestos has a grey or brownish grey color and is often found in fibrous chunks.

How To Handle Asbestos Sheets

It's important to understand that asbestos sheets must be handled with extreme caution. If not handled properly, asbestos fibers can be released in the air, which may be inhaled and cause long-term health complications. Here are a few tips on how to handle asbestos sheets safely:

1. Keep the area damp to minimize the release of fibers.
2. Wear protective clothing, including a respirator mask, gloves, coveralls, and eye protection.
3. Avoid breaking the sheets or disturbing them unnecessarily.
4. Don't use power tools, such as drills or saws, as they can easily release fibers.
5. Label and bag any waste material to be disposed of.

How To Ensure Safe Asbestos Removal

Before removing asbestos sheets from your roof, you must ensure that the process is completed safely. The proper extraction of asbestos is crucial to minimize its risks. It is, therefore, essential to work with a competent asbestos removal company in Sussex. Here are some of the things to consider when selecting a company:

1. The company must have a license and certification to carry out asbestos removal work.
2. Consider the company's experience working with asbestos and what percentage of the jobs it performs are asbestos-related.
3. Always read the reviews and ratings online.
4. Confirm whether the company provides insurance coverage for its workers and the public.
5. Finally, get a written quotation, which outlines the expected timeframe and costs of the project.

The Asbestos Roof Removal Process

The actual removal process of asbestos roofing sheets is not as difficult as it may seem. Heres a step-by-step guide on how to remove asbestos safely from your roof:

1. The first step is to erect safety scaffolding and containment around the affected area to minimize exposure to nearby residents and our operatives.
2. Wet the surface with a surface spray and let it sit for at least half an hour to keep the asbestos fibers stuck to it.
3. Loosen the nails or screws on the sheets, and remove them using a crowbar or similar tool carefully.
4. Work in sections and ensure the clean-up of each section, bagging up the debris and decontaminating the area with the wetting, then disposing of the protective sheeting and bags correctly.
5. Repeat this process until all the asbestos sheets are removed from the roof.

Dont Feel Afraid To Remove Asbestos

If you feel that you have the required skills and the correct safety equipment, removing asbestos sheets from your roof can be a DIY job. We always recommend having a professional asbestos removal company undertake the work if you don't have adequate experience as removing asbestos is a high-risk task.

However, you dont need to be afraid of removing asbestos. Our team at Affordable Asbestos Removal has encountered many DIY jobs that have become more dangerous and costly than expected. We recommend reaching out to our team before commencing any DIY jobs. We are always here to answer any questions.

Safety Regulations And The HSE

Safety regulations regarding asbestos removal must always be followed to remove and dispose of the asbestos safely. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) outlines the procedures that must be followed when dealing with ACMs. The HSE requires the following:

1. All workers must receive training.
2. When working with asbestos, it is best to use a specialist firm that has taken the appropriate training and safety measures.
3. All necessary precautions must be taken to minimize the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers in the air.

Safety Equipment To Use

If you are carrying out a DIY job, you must use the right protective equipment to ensure your safety.

Heres a list of safety equipment that must be used when handling asbestos:

1. Respirator mask with a P3 filter.
2. Disposable coveralls.
3. Gloves.
4. A simple moulded flexible mask for the other operatives on the Ground.
5. Heavy-duty garbage bags.
6. Duct tape.
7. Spray bottle with water and detergent.
8. Suitable footwear and hard hat

Conclusion

If you suspect that your roof contains asbestos sheets, it is important not to ignore the issue. It is crucial to work with a skilled and experienced asbestos removal company to ensure the safe extraction of the hazardous materials. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we aim to make the asbestos removal process as smooth, safe, and affordable as possible.

If you have any further inquiries or need help safely removing asbestos from your roof, please dont hesitate to contact us on 01273 978238 or send us an email at [email protected]. Visit our website, affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk, for more information.